F1: FIA mandates 18-laps on each set of tires for Qatar

Following the standard analysis of tires used, the FIA has mandated that Formula 1 drivers must not exceed 18 laps on a set of Pirellis for today’s Qatar GP.

If you exceed 18 laps you will be disqualified. The problem is the teams do not have three sets of new tires – the used tires already have laps on them. Hence, a minimum of 3 pitstops per driver will be required, and some may need 4 stops.

An FIA statement read: “Due to the frequency of Safety Car interventions in yesterday’s Sprint, the tire data available for analysis by Pirelli was insufficient to add to that already undertaken following previous track sessions.

“In some cases, tires that were analyzed from the Sprint did show the initial onset of the separation in the sidewall between the topping compound and the carcass cords of the tires.

“As a consequence, it has been decided by the FIA and Pirelli and after consultation with the teams on safety grounds, the following measures will be implemented for today’s Qatar Grand Prix: a mandatory limit of 18 laps of total tire life per set will be imposed; the life of already used tires will be taken into consideration.

“The FIA and Pirelli will communicate to the teams the remaining available laps for each set of used tires at their disposal for the race and the criteria used to calculate that number.”